FAQ
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE ONBOARD?
"The details provided below offer a general overview applicable to most cruise companies. Specific conditions and benefits offered by your employer will be communicated upon hiring. Working on a cruise ship comes with numerous advantages, including:
- Saving money over a short period of time,
- Traveling around the world,
- Interacting with people from diverse nationalities and cultures,
- Developing professional skills, and
- Gaining valuable work experience.
For many, living and working on a cruise ship fulfills a lifelong dream of travel and cultural
exploration. This profession is particularly suitable for adventurous individuals who are
willing to work diligently and strive for excellence.
With the introduction of numerous new ships, job opportunities on cruise ships are on the rise.
However, compared to other industries, the turnover rate for employees in cruise lines is
notably higher. While some view cruise line jobs as lifelong careers, others may opt to change
ships or cruise companies, take a break for a holiday, or transition back to onshore employment.
Consequently, cruise lines are continuously seeking new staff to join their teams.
Considering a career on a cruise ship but unsure about what to expect? We've compiled a list of
frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide you with comprehensive information before you begin
applying for cruise ship positions.
Recognizing that there are many factors to weigh, our recruiters will offer guidance and furnish
additional relevant details throughout the application process to address any further inquiries
about life onboard."
Answer: Positions vary widely, including roles in hospitality, entertainment,
food service, housekeeping, maintenance, administration, and more.
Answer: Most cruise lines require employees to be at least 18 years old, though some
positions may have higher age requirements.
Answer: While prior experience may be preferred for certain roles, many
entry-level positions do not require previous experience, as training is provided.
Answer: Working hours vary depending on the position and department, but employees
can expect long hours and irregular schedules, often working seven days a week.
Answer: Yes, new hires typically undergo a probationary period during which their
performance is evaluated before being considered for permanent employment.
Answer: Benefits may include medical insurance, paid vacation, discounted travel
rates, onboard amenities, and access to crew facilities.
Answer: Some cruise lines offer family accommodation options or discounted rates for
family members to join employees onboard during specific periods.
Answer: The cruise line's HR department or designated agency typically assists
employees with obtaining required visas and permits for international travel.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines provide recreational facilities and amenities for crew
members to use during their downtime, such as gyms, swimming pools, lounges, and
entertainment areas.
Answer: Cruise lines have procedures in place for resolving conflicts or
disagreements between crew members and supervisors, which may involve mediation,
counseling, or escalation to higher management.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines may offer opportunities for cross-training or learning
new skills to help employees develop their talents and expand their capabilities.
Answer: Cruise lines provide resources for employees to maintain their physical
and mental well-being onboard, including access to fitness facilities, wellness
programs, counseling services, and recreational activities.
Answer: Some cruise lines offer childcare services or support for employees with
family responsibilities, including assistance with childcare arrangements and access
to family-friendly facilities.
Answer: Cruise lines provide language training and communication support to help
crew members overcome language barriers and facilitate effective communication
onboard.
Answer: Cruise lines may offer legal assistance or support services to employees
facing legal issues or concerns, including access to legal advice and
representation.
Answer: Yes, many cruise lines have environmental conservation or sustainability
initiatives in place, and employees may have opportunities to participate in these
efforts through volunteer programs or educational activities.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines provide support and assistance to employees facing
personal or family emergencies while onboard, including access to counseling,
financial assistance, and repatriation services if needed.
Answer: Cruise lines have housekeeping staff and procedures in place to maintain
crew accommodations and living quarters for cleanliness and comfort, with regular
inspections and cleaning schedules.
Answer: Some cruise lines offer financial planning or retirement savings programs
for employees, including access to retirement savings accounts, investment options,
and financial advisory services.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines may organize professional networking events or
conferences for employees to connect with industry professionals, share knowledge,
and build relationships while onboard.
Answer: Cruise ships have emergency response procedures in place, including
drills, trained medical staff, and communication systems to ensure the safety and
well-being of passengers and crew.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines typically have a dress code for employees to maintain a
professional appearance while on duty, with uniforms provided for most positions.
Answer: Employees typically have access to designated crew dining areas where
meals are served at scheduled times, with a variety of options available.
Answer: Employees can request time off or vacation days through the cruise line's
HR department, usually with advance notice and subject to approval based on
operational needs.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines often provide training programs and opportunities for
skill development to help employees enhance their knowledge and abilities.
Answer: Cruise lines implement various safety and security measures to protect
crew members, including surveillance cameras, security personnel, access control
systems, and emergency response protocols.
Answer: Yes, cruise ships have medical facilities and trained medical staff
onboard to provide medical care and assistance to crew members in case of illness or
injury.
Answer: Promotions and job opportunities are typically communicated through
internal channels, such as the company's intranet, email, or notices posted onboard.
Answer: Some positions may offer opportunities for earning additional income
through tips or commissions, depending on the nature of the role and guest
interactions.
Answer: Employee performance evaluations are typically conducted periodically by
supervisors or department heads, based on predefined criteria and performance
metrics.
Answer: Some cruise lines offer financial planning or counseling services to
employees to help them manage their finances and plan for their future.
Answer: Cruise lines have mechanisms in place for employees to submit complaints
or feedback, which are then reviewed and addressed by management or HR departments.
Answer: Yes, some cruise lines offer educational opportunities and support for
employees to further their studies or career development, including tuition
assistance, scholarship programs, and access to online courses.
Answer: Cruise lines provide various resources for personal and professional
development, including training programs, workshops, seminars, and access to online
learning platforms.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines may organize talent shows or entertainment events for
crew members to showcase their talents and creativity, fostering a fun and engaging
onboard atmosphere.
Answer: Cruise lines recognize and reward crew members for outstanding performance
or contributions through various incentive programs, awards, and recognition
ceremonies onboard.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines provide recreational facilities and amenities for crew
members to use during their downtime, such as gyms, swimming pools, lounges, and
entertainment areas.
Answer: Cruise lines have procedures in place for resolving conflicts or
disagreements between crew members and supervisors, which may involve mediation,
counseling, or escalation to higher management.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines may offer opportunities for cross-training or learning
new skills to help employees develop their talents and expand their capabilities.
Answer: Cruise lines provide resources for employees to maintain their physical
and mental well-being onboard, including access to fitness facilities, wellness
programs, counseling services, and recreational activities.
Answer: Some cruise lines offer childcare services or support for employees with
family responsibilities, including assistance with childcare arrangements and access
to family-friendly facilities.
Answer: Cruise lines provide language training and communication support to help
crew members overcome language barriers and facilitate effective communication
onboard.
Answer: Cruise lines may offer legal assistance or support services to employees
facing legal issues or concerns, including access to legal advice and
representation.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines accommodate employees' religious beliefs and spiritual
needs by providing access to religious services, prayer rooms, and pastoral support.
Answer: Cruise lines ensure that onboard facilities and equipment are accessible
and adapted for employees with disabilities or special needs, in compliance with
accessibility standards and regulations.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines may organize community outreach or volunteer projects
for employees to participate in during port visits, contributing to local
communities and fostering social responsibility.
Answer: Cruise lines have strict policies and training programs in place to
prevent harassment, discrimination, and bullying onboard, with zero-tolerance for
such behavior and mechanisms for reporting and addressing incidents.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines provide support and assistance to employees facing
personal or family emergencies while onboard, including access to counseling,
financial assistance, and repatriation services if needed.
Answer: Cruise lines have housekeeping staff and procedures in place to maintain
crew accommodations and living quarters for cleanliness and comfort, with regular
inspections and cleaning schedules.
Answer: Some cruise lines offer financial planning or retirement savings programs
for employees, including access to retirement savings accounts, investment options,
and financial advisory services.
Answer: Employees can request time off or vacation days through the cruise line's
HR department, usually with advance notice and subject to approval based on
operational needs.
Answer: Some positions may offer opportunities for earning additional income
through tips or commissions, depending on the nature of the role and guest
interactions.
Answer: Employee performance evaluations are typically conducted periodically by
supervisors or department heads, based on predefined criteria and performance
metrics.
Answer: Some cruise lines offer financial planning or counseling services to
employees to help them manage their finances and plan for their future.
Answer: Cruise lines have mechanisms in place for employees to submit complaints
or feedback, which are then reviewed and addressed by management or HR departments.
Answer: Yes, some cruise lines offer educational opportunities and support for
employees to further their studies or career development, including tuition
assistance, scholarship programs, and access to online courses.
Answer: Cruise lines provide various resources for personal and professional
development, including training programs, workshops, seminars, and access to online
learning platforms.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines may organize talent shows or entertainment events for
crew members to showcase their talents and creativity, fostering a fun and engaging
onboard atmosphere.
Answer: Cruise lines recognize and reward crew members for outstanding performance
or contributions through various incentive programs, awards, and recognition
ceremonies onboard.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines provide recreational facilities and amenities for crew
members to use during their downtime, such as gyms, swimming pools, lounges, and
entertainment areas.
Answer: Cruise lines have established protocols for resolving conflicts or
disagreements between crew members, often involving mediation, open communication,
and, if necessary, escalation to higher management.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines often organize cultural events, recreational activities,
and entertainment options for crew members to enjoy during their off-duty hours.
Answer: Cruise lines provide access to mental health resources, counseling
services, and support networks to promote the mental health and well-being of crew
members.
Answer: Some cruise lines offer opportunities for crew members to engage in
community service projects or volunteer work during port visits, contributing to
local communities and fostering social responsibility.
Answer: Cruise lines conduct regular safety drills, training sessions, and
simulations to ensure that crew members are adequately trained in safety procedures
and emergency response protocols.
Answer: Cruise lines may provide financial assistance or support to crew members
facing personal emergencies or crises, depending on the nature of the situation and
available resources.
Answer: Cruise lines offer access to fitness centers, exercise classes, sports
facilities, and healthy dining options to help crew members maintain their physical
fitness and health.
Answer: Cruise lines offer leadership development programs, mentorship
opportunities, and pathways for career advancement to encourage crew members to
develop leadership skills and take on more responsibilities.
Answer: Yes, some cruise lines offer language classes or language learning
resources onboard to help crew members improve their language skills and
communication abilities.
Answer: Cruise lines promote diversity and inclusion through recruitment
practices, training programs, cultural awareness initiatives, and support networks
for underrepresented groups.
Answer: Cruise lines have recognition programs, awards ceremonies, and incentive
schemes in place to acknowledge and reward crew members for exceptional service and
contributions to guest satisfaction.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines offer career counseling, guidance, and support services
to crew members seeking professional development opportunities or career
advancement.
Answer: Yes, some cruise lines engage crew members in sustainability initiatives,
environmental conservation projects, and eco-friendly practices to promote
environmental stewardship.
Answer: Cruise lines communicate changes in policies, procedures, or operational
updates to crew members through official announcements, training sessions, and
internal communication channels.
Answer: Yes, some cruise lines offer financial planning workshops or seminars
onboard to help crew members manage their finances, plan for the future, and achieve
their financial goals.
Answer: Cruise lines provide access to legal assistance, advice, and support
services for crew members facing legal issues or concerns, ensuring their rights and
interests are protected.
Answer: Cruise lines encourage crew members to provide feedback, suggestions, and
ideas for improving onboard operations through feedback mechanisms, suggestion
boxes, and open-door policies with management.
Answer: Yes, cruise ships have mental health professionals, counselors, and
support services available onboard to assist crew members with mental health issues,
stress management, and emotional well-being.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines may organize cultural exchange programs, events, and
activities for crew members to learn about different cultures, traditions, and
customs while onboard.
Answer: Cruise lines recognize crew members for their contributions to onboard
safety and security through safety awards, commendations, and acknowledgments from
management.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines may provide support for crew members to obtain
professional certifications or qualifications relevant to their roles through
training programs or financial assistance.
Answer: Cruise lines offer cultural sensitivity training, diversity awareness
programs, and intercultural communication workshops to help crew members thrive in
diverse and multicultural environments.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines organize team-building activities, exercises, and
workshops to foster collaboration, communication, and camaraderie among crew
members.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines offer resources for crew members' personal and
professional growth, including access to educational materials, skill-building
workshops, and career development programs.
Answer: Cruise lines promote work-life balance by providing access to recreational
facilities, wellness programs, flexible scheduling options, and time off for rest
and relaxation.
Answer: Cruise lines implement safety protocols, security measures, and risk
assessments to ensure crew members' safety and security during port visits,
including briefings on potential risks and hazards.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines offer resources for crew members to develop financial
planning skills, manage their budgets, and make informed financial decisions during
their contracts.
Answer: Cruise lines provide customer service training, hospitality workshops, and
role-playing exercises to equip crew members with the skills and mindset to deliver
exceptional service to guests.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines may offer opportunities for crew members to showcase
their talents and skills through onboard entertainment, performances, and cultural
events.
Answer: Cruise lines foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement by
encouraging crew members to contribute ideas, suggestions, and feedback for
enhancing onboard operations.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines provide language learning resources, language courses,
and language exchange programs to help crew members learn new languages or improve
their language skills.
Answer: Cruise lines offer access to mental health professionals, counselors, and
support services for crew members experiencing mental health issues, stress, or
emotional challenges.
Answer: Cruise lines acknowledge and reward crew members for their contributions
to onboard entertainment and guest satisfaction through performance reviews, awards,
and recognition programs.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines offer leadership development programs, workshops, and
mentorship opportunities for crew members interested in advancing their leadership
skills and responsibilities.
Answer: Cruise lines provide comprehensive training in using safety equipment,
emergency procedures, and crisis management protocols to ensure crew members are
prepared to respond effectively to emergencies.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines offer resources, workshops, and training sessions for
crew members to enhance their communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills
while onboard.
Answer: Cruise lines prioritize crew members' health and well-being during long
contracts by providing access to healthcare services, wellness programs, and support
networks.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines engage crew members in environmental sustainability
initiatives, recycling programs, and eco-friendly practices to promote environmental
stewardship and conservation.
Answer: Cruise lines provide orientation sessions, on-the-job training, and
mentorship programs to help crew members adapt to the challenges of working in a
dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Answer: Yes, cruise lines offer resources, guidance, and support for crew members'
long-term career planning and development, including opportunities for advancement,
further education, and professional growth.
Answer: Cruise lines typically seek individuals who meet specific criteria such as
minimum age, good health, fluency in English, ability to work in a team, etc.